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Getting to Know Dr. Scott Erickson: A Q&A with Berwick Academy’s Next Head of School
As Berwick Academy prepares to welcome Dr. Scott Erickson as its 55th Head of School this summer, we invite the community to get to know him better. In this conversation, Dr. Erickson shares insights about his journey in education, his leadership philosophy, and what excites him most about joining the Berwick community.
Q: What excites you most about joining Berwick Academy?
Dr. Erickson: “The moment I visited Berwick, I could feel the energy, warmth, and authenticity of the community. It’s a place where students are encouraged to be curious, to be themselves, and to strive for excellence. The school’s mission of virtue and useful knowledge deeply resonates with me, and I’m honored to be part of a learning environment that values character, innovation, and student-centered growth.”
Q: Can you share a little about your background in education?
Dr. Erickson: “I grew up in rural Iowa and attended a public high school where I was inspired by incredible teachers who encouraged me to think critically and embrace learning. That experience sparked my passion for education, and I knew early on that I wanted to be a teacher. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in incredible independent schools, including St. Paul’s School, National Cathedral School, Phillips Brooks School, and most recently as Interim Head of School at Indian Mountain School. Each experience has shaped my approach to leadership and reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education.”
Q: How would you describe your leadership style?
Dr. Erickson: “I believe in relational and distributed leadership—building trust, fostering collaboration, and empowering faculty, students, and staff to be their best. I listen first, engage deeply, and work alongside the community to shape a shared vision for the future. I also believe that great schools thrive on strong partnerships among students, teachers, families, and alumni, and I look forward to cultivating those relationships at Berwick.”
Q: What do you think makes a great learning community?
Dr. Erickson: “A great school is one where students feel seen, challenged, and inspired every day. It’s a place where academic excellence is balanced with character development, creativity, and a sense of belonging. Berwick is already an extraordinary school with a reputation for fostering intellectual curiosity, innovation, and leadership, and I’m excited to help build on that foundation."
Berwick Academy is thrilled to welcome Dr. Erickson, and we look forward to his leadership in the years ahead. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to meet him in person!
Return to our website for full updates from today's exciting announcement.
Q: What drew you to independent school leadership?
Dr. Erickson: “I started my career as a teacher and quickly realized that I loved working not just in the classroom, but across the entire school community. Over time, I took on leadership roles that allowed me to support faculty development, shape academic programs, create enriching experiences for students, and improve business operations. Being a Head of School is truly the best job I’ve ever had because I get to engage with students, faculty, families, trustees, and alumni in so many meaningful ways.”
Q: What’s your vision for Berwick Academy in the years ahead?
Dr. Erickson: “Berwick Academy is an incredible school with a rich history and a bright future. My goal is to honor its strong traditions while continuing to innovate and ensure that every student receives an exceptional education that prepares them for the world ahead. I look forward to listening, learning, and working with the community to shape the next chapter of Berwick’s success.”
Q: How can students, faculty, and families connect with you?
Dr. Erickson: “I look forward to meeting everyone! Over the coming months, there will be opportunities for students, faculty, families, and alumni to connect with me through events and informal gatherings. I also look forward to visiting classrooms, athletic fields, arts studios, offices, and more. I encourage anyone to stop by, say hello, and share what makes Berwick special to them. I’m eager to hear your stories, ideas, and hopes for the future.”
Berwick Academy is thrilled to welcome Dr. Erickson, and we look forward to his leadership in the years ahead. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to meet him in person!
Return to our website for full updates from today's exciting announcement.
Berwick Academy
31 Academy Street
South Berwick, Maine 03908
Contact:
Admission | 207.384.6300
Main Office | 207.384.2164
South Berwick, Maine 03908
Contact:
Admission | 207.384.6300
Main Office | 207.384.2164
Berwick Academy, situated on an 80-acre campus just over one hour north of Boston, serves 520 students, Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 and Postgraduates. Berwick students are from Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and several countries. Deeply committed to its mission of promoting virtue and useful knowledge, Berwick Academy empowers students to be creative and bold. Berwick strives to graduate alumni who shape their own learning, take risks, ask thoughtful questions, and come to understand and celebrate their authentic selves.
